AkzoNobel has won the prestigious Gouden Noot 2016 packaging innovation award for its innovative FLEXA Creations Color Tester, a mini roller that helps consumers test color choices before they buy.

The Gouden Noot, organized by the Netherlands Packaging Centre, is one of the world’s most competitive packaging innovation contests. In presenting the award, the jury said: “The novel package for consumers is based on both creative and functional design that fulfils a real consumer need for testing colors to be used at home.”

The Flexa wet testers are one of a series of marketing tools that help inspire customers to make confident color choices.

“We understand how essential color is to everyday life,” explained Kim Potters, Marketing Director – Netherlands for AkzoNobel’s Decorative Paints business. “However, research has shown that consumers lack confidence when it comes to decorating, with 40 percent actively searching for inspiration. That’s why we focus on driving innovations that help consumers choose the right colors and products.”

Other examples include the award-winning Visualizer app, and AkzoNobel’s Color of the Year as well as innovative products that can prevent damage, resist dirt or keep homes cooler.